Motorcycle skills session helps Northern Ireland riders get road‑ready for 2026

• Skills event launched by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart as motorcycle fatalities remain a concern

Motorcyclists across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to refresh their riding skills ahead of the 2026 season at a new road safety event in County Antrim.

In a first for Northern Ireland, the UK’s leading road safety charity IAM RoadSmart is offering riders the chance to practise precision riding techniques with expert instructors on a racing circuit, with skills designed to transfer to public roads.

The machine control day, which is being held on April 18 at Transport Training Services in Crumlin, will focus on core skills such as machine control, braking, cornering and observation.

Department for Infrastructure figures show that on average, ten motorcyclists are killed on Northern Ireland’s roads every year, highlighting the ongoing safety challenges facing riders.[i]In 2025, 239 motorcyclists [ii]were injured, showing just how vulnerable riders are.

Regional Road Safety Manager for Northern Ireland, Bruce Steele, said: “On average, ten motorcyclists are killed every year and that’s ten too many. It’s vital that riders take the time to refresh their skills and rebuild confidence after the winter break. Events like this give motorcyclists the chance to practice precision riding in a controlled setting, helping them develop techniques that can make a real difference to their safety when they’re back out on public roads.”

The Machine Handling and Control skills event has been part-funded by donations raised by IAM RoadSmart.

Tickets will be on sale from February 3 at 8pm. Click here to book.

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